Epiphany: a four fold feast

At the visitation of the Magi, the Christ child's divinity is revealed to all the other nations on Earth. Three kings or wise men journey to deliver their gifts to the holy child. Each bringing a symbolic treasure.

Detail from the Magi Chapel, Palazzo Medici Riccardi, Florence

For Christ himself:

• Gold represents Christ’s kingship
• Frankincense, a sweet-smelling resin used in worship - his priesthood
• Myrrh, an ointment used in burial - foreshadows his death

For humanity, the gifts meant:

• Frankincense - time for God
• Myrrh - time for Self
• Gold -time for Family